A socio-political coalition, Akwa Ibom Unity Forum (AUF), has declared support for the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for 2027 elections by Governor Umo Eno, begging the President for federal government’s development projects in Akwa Ibom State.
The Akwa Ibom Unity Forum (AUF), in a statement in Uyo, reiterated their support for Governor Umo Eno’s endorsement of President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, acknowledging it as significant and a bold and constitutionally grounded decision.
The coalition was of the view that the endorsement has been accepted by the people of Akwa Ibom State, with the anticipation that it will position the state as a strong political base of the president’s future political endeavors.
The coalition at a historic meeting on February 28, 2025, Governor Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio led a 104-member delegation to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the governor presented three pivotal requests to President Tinubu, which include urgent federal intervention in addressing ecological disasters affecting the state, support for the development of the Ibom Deep Sea Port, and an invitation for the President to undertake a state visit to commission key projects.
The coalition highlighted the transformative potential of the Ibom Deep Sea Port, describing it as a strategic asset that would not only bolster the state’s economy but also serve as a vital maritime hub for the nation and the Central African region.
The Forum emphasized that federal backing is crucial to actualize the project, which promises to create numerous job opportunities and enhance Nigeria’s non-oil revenue streams.
The coalition also pointed out other needs requiring federal intervention to mitigate ecological challenges that have plagued various parts of the state, including severe erosion threatening infrastructure and livelihoods.
The group appealed for reimbursement of substantial funds the state has already expended on disaster management efforts.
The forum also reiterated the importance of President Tinubu’s visit to Akwa Ibom, suggesting that such an engagement would not only strengthen federal-state relations but also provide an opportunity for the President to witness firsthand the developmental strides made under Governor Eno’s administration.
The request to the President was endorsed by array of Akwa Ibom stakeholders, who include: Rt Hon. Udeme Otong, Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District; H.E. Moses Ekpo, former Deputy Governor; Obong Umana Okon Umana, former Minister; Atuekong Don Etiebet, former Minister; Rt. Hon. Chief Ndueso Essien, former Minister; Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien; Senator Effiong Bob; Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem; H.E. Chief Assam Assam, SAN; Rt. Hon. Francis Uduyok; Hon. Blessing Umoh (IPAC); Aparawa James Edet, International President of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio /Akwa Ibom Union; Aniekpeno Mkpanang, International President of Ati Annang; Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, President General of Oron Union; Rt Hon. Prof. Ini Udoka; Senator Aloysius Etok; and Arc Otu Ita Toyo.
Credit: THISDAY